How do individuals mentally prepare to seek treatment?

The stages of preparation towards treatment are as follows.

Precontemplative State:
This is identified by refusal/denial that a problem exists.
The sufferer will not cooperate.

***To Family and Friends: A loving nonjudgmental approach is best. Soft tones as well as informational materials are helpful. Arguments or force are counterproductive.

Contemplation:
The sufferer identifies a need for change.
This does not mean the sufferer accepts the issues at hand. But, it does mean the sufferer is beginning to look at possibilities.

***To Family and Friends: Again, confrontation by force is counterproductive. There are no time limits to any of these stages. There are many factors and all sufferers are different. Some individuals get back on course in a few months, others take years to fully recover.

Preparation:
The sufferer is actively evaluating the positives and negatives of change.
At this stage the sufferer is more accepting of information regarding the severity of the issues.
Treatment at this time is strongly recommended.

***To Family and Friends: Do your homework in advance for treatment options!!!!!!!!!!

Action:
The sufferer at this stage is taking a proactive stance.
The will to get well exists!
Treatment is an option for the sufferer at this point.
At this stage any and all available help and support is needed.

***To Family and Friends: This doesn't mean the eating disorder voice is no longer active, it is! But, the voice has been quieted.
The more invested in treatment and recovery the sufferer become less of a risk of experiencing relapse.

Maintenance:
The sufferer is actively practicing and learning healthy alternatives to the eating disorder.
Expanding recovery knowledge and practice is noticeable.

Termination:
The healthy changes learned in the last two stages become a successful lifestyle.
Active, mindful recovery must be ongoing to reduce relapse risks.

***Note: During the treatment stage, between 20-30% drop out early and relapse.